Our Apprenticeship
Programmes

Not necessarily. We actively work with partner salons across Bedfordshire and can help match suitable candidates with willing employers. If you already have a salon role, even better — we just need your employer to sign the Apprenticeship Agreement before training begins.

Yes — if you have been employed in your current role for less than 12 months and it is directly relevant to the apprenticeship standard, you may be eligible. We will assess your prior learning and experience at the initial assessment stage and credit any relevant knowledge, skills and behaviours already demonstrated.

Off-the-job training is at least 6 hours per week of structured learning that takes place away from your normal day-to-day salon duties. This is counted during working hours and covers theory lessons, practice on models, manufacturer training days, skills coach visits and any mandatory coursework. We help your employer plan and record this properly using our digital portfolio system.

Nothing. Apprenticeship training costs are paid by the government and the employer — never by the learner. Learners receive a wage (minimum wage rules apply), and any English and Maths Functional Skills support is also funded. There are no course fees, exam fees or material costs charged to the learner.

You can resit. There is no cap on the number of attempts, though a minimum waiting period of one month is required between attempts. PLUMS provides targeted support and practice sessions before any resit. The vast majority of our learners pass at the first attempt — our 2023/24 EPA first-attempt pass rate was 94%.

Yes — and this is the most common route. After completing Hair Professional L2 and gaining at least 12 months' post-qualification experience, you can apply for the Advanced Creative Hair L3 programme. Your existing PLUMS Skills Coach relationship continues and there is no gap in support.